Best Restaurants Near Spinola Bay in St Julian's, Malta

Spinola Bay is one of Malta’s most enjoyable dining neighbourhoods. Around its sheltered harbour, traditional Maltese cooking sits alongside waterfront seafood, Mediterranean favourites and distinctive international restaurants.

Guests staying at Spinola Hotel can reach much of this choice on foot. Whether you want authentic Italian cooking, a relaxed lunch or dinner overlooking the bay, these restaurants offer several good reasons to dine around St Julian’s.

Made in Puglia Fratelli Campanella

Made in Puglia Fratelli Campanella is an independently operated Italian restaurant located within the Spinola Hotel premises. Created by the Campanella family, it brings the flavours and warm hospitality of southern Italy to St Julian’s.

The restaurant draws inspiration from the culinary traditions of Puglia, a region known for its honest cooking, seafood and respect for quality ingredients. Its menu places particular emphasis on fresh fish and seafood, alongside pasta, meat dishes and other Italian specialities.

The atmosphere is warm and personal, making it suitable for couples, families and anyone looking for an authentic Italian dinner away from the busiest waterfront terraces. Its location also makes it especially convenient for Spinola Hotel guests, although the restaurant welcomes outside diners and operates independently from the hotel.

Opening hours can vary, so diners should check directly with the restaurant and reserve ahead where possible.

Best for: Authentic Puglian cuisine, fresh seafood and warm Italian hospitality.

Gululu: For Traditional Maltese Food

Gululu is a natural starting point for visitors who want to discover Maltese cuisine. Situated beside the water at Spinola Bay, it serves familiar local recipes in a relaxed setting.

Its menu draws on dishes and ingredients associated with Maltese home cooking, including local dips, rabbit, pasta, seafood and traditional accompaniments. This makes it a useful choice for guests who want to sample several Maltese flavours without leaving St Julian’s.

The waterfront location also works well for an early dinner as the light changes over the harbour.

Best for: Traditional Maltese cooking in a casual waterfront setting.

San Giuliano: For Seafood and Bay Views

San Giuliano occupies a prominent position above Spinola Bay, overlooking the harbour and the historic arched boathouses below.

The menu has an Italian and Mediterranean character, with fresh fish, seafood, pasta and other classic dishes. Its elevated viewpoint and evening atmosphere make it particularly suitable for couples or anyone planning a more leisurely dinner.

Request a view-facing table when reserving, as the table location can make a considerable difference to the experience.

Best for: Seafood, views across Spinola Bay and a special dinner.

Zest: For Asian and Nikkei Flavours

Zest provides a change from the Mediterranean menus found around much of the bay. Its cooking is influenced by Asian cuisine and Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei flavours, served in a contemporary setting close to Spinola Hotel.

This is one of the stronger options for guests looking for a more modern evening meal. The menu lends itself well to couples and small groups who want to share several dishes rather than follow a traditional starter-and-main format.

Zest is currently recognised by the Michelin Guide, although reservations and opening arrangements should always be checked directly.

Best for: Contemporary Asian flavours and an occasion-led dinner.

MÉZ: For South Indian Coastal Cuisine

MÉZ brings something distinctive to the Spinola Bay dining scene. Its menu focuses on the coastal cuisines of southern India, using seafood, coconut, spices and regional influences from areas such as Kerala and Goa.

The restaurant’s position overlooking the bay gives the meal a strong sense of place, while its cuisine provides a clear alternative to the Italian and Mediterranean menus nearby.

It is particularly suited to diners who enjoy aromatic, spice-led cooking and want an evening meal that feels different.

Best for: Indian coastal cuisine, seafood and bold flavours.

Bianco’s: For Pizza, Pasta and Groups

Bianco’s is a practical option when a group wants plenty of choice. Its Mediterranean menu includes pizza, pasta, grills and dishes with Maltese influences, making it easier to accommodate different preferences around one table.

The atmosphere is relaxed, so it can work well for families, groups of friends or an uncomplicated lunch or dinner near Spinola Bay.

Guests with allergies or specific dietary requirements should confirm available options directly with the restaurant.

Best for: Families, groups and familiar Mediterranean choices.

Café Juliani: For Breakfast or a Light Lunch

Not every meal needs to become an event. Café Juliani offers breakfast, brunch, coffee and lighter dishes in the heart of Spinola Bay.

It is a convenient choice for a slow morning, a casual lunch or a coffee break between exploring St Julian’s and walking towards Balluta Bay. Its extended service also makes it useful when meal plans do not fit traditional restaurant hours.

Best for: Breakfast, brunch, coffee and lighter meals.

How to Choose a Restaurant Near Spinola Bay

Choose Made in Puglia for a family-led Italian dining experience with a strong Puglian identity. For your first taste of Malta, try a restaurant specialising in local cooking, while a waterfront or elevated restaurant is ideal for a romantic evening.

During summer and on Friday or Saturday evenings, reserve ahead. Ask specifically for an outdoor or view-facing table if that matters to you, as a reservation does not always guarantee one.

Menus, opening hours and service periods can change seasonally. Contact the restaurant directly if you have allergies, accessibility requirements or a particular dish in mind.

After dinner, return to the comfort of your room or finish the evening with a walk around the harbour.